AFU's Advance in the South Forces Russian Command to Redeploy Elite Forces

Ukrainian forces have liberated three settlements near Oleksandrivka and continue to pressure Russian positions in the southern sector. According to a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), successful tactical actions by the Armed Forces of Ukraine have forced the Russian command to redistribute reserves and redeploy combat-capable units to this frontline sector.

Liberation of Territories in the Oleksandrivka Direction

According to Ukrainian military observer Kostyantyn Mashovets, on October 25, AFU units liberated the settlements of Peredbudova, Komar, and Fedorivka, located east and south of Oleksandrivka. Furthermore, Ukrainian troops advanced from Vesely towards Skudne and pushed Russian forces out of the salient northwest of the Fedorivka — Burlatske line.

Despite Ukrainian successes, fierce fighting continues in this sector as Russian units still hold positions on the northeastern outskirts of Peredbudova. Counterattacks by the Defense Forces in the Oleksandrivka direction have been underway since early February 2026 as part of a broader opposition to Russian offensive operations.

Redeployment of Russian Reserves and Naval Infantry

The successful actions of the Ukrainian army forced the Russian command to alter the positioning of some of its forces and abandon support for offensive operations in other sectors. Specifically, units of the 120th Naval Infantry Division of the Baltic Fleet and the 40th Separate Naval Infantry Brigade of the Pacific Fleet were redeployed to the Oleksandrivka direction.

Previously, these formations operated in the Dobropillia direction, but in March 2026, they were relocated to the Oleksandrivka area. In addition, the Russian command transferred units of the 90th Tank Division here, which were initially intended to support the offensive towards Druzhkivka.

Impact on Russian Plans Near Huliaipole and Orikhiv

The AFU advance could pose a serious threat to the rear of Russian forces attempting to advance west of Huliaipole. This direction is critical for Russia's plans to envelop Orikhiv from two sides, and settlements like Velyka Novosilka are located near an important road junction that secures enemy logistics.

ISW assesses Ukrainian achievements as slow but tactically important. Further development of the situation will depend on the AFU's ability to build on its success and the extent of further force redistribution by the Russian command across various frontline sectors.